Bananas in Syrup – Minatamis na Sabang Saging

Minatamis na Saging or Bananas in Syrup is a traditional Filipino dessert, snack, or merienda. The name literally means “sweetened bananas”. It is really easy to prepare using Saba or Cardaba bananas.

In the Philippines we have lots of Saba bananas, it is the most common banana. It grows everywhere; in backyards, gardens, and swamps. We don’t need to buy them we just pick them off the trees. In the Philippines Saba bananas are also referred to as Plantain Bananas, but don’t confuse it with the plantain varieties used in other parts of the world. They aren’t the same at all! Sabas are short stubby bananas that can be eaten fresh or cooked; Plantains are longer, slimmer, not as sweet, and starchier, they are cooking bananas and can not be eaten fresh.

My mother is very good in making Minatamis na Saging. She introduced them to me when I was just 8 years old. I remember the taste and the texture of it. Every time I eat Minatamis na Saging I remember my childhood.